Played by Sachin

On his birthday today, Verve looks back at the things most loved about Sachin Tendulkar

Verve raises a toast to Sachin Tendulkar on his birthday…

For being inspirational He was nominated ESPNcricinfo’s Cricketer of the Generation. Almost every player who puts bat to ball will confess to being inspired by the God of Indian cricket. He has left an imprint of hard work, humility, integrity and honesty.

For his sense of humour that was evident in the dressing room and while with friends: ‘Forewarned is forearmed. If I tell you what tricks I have up my sleeve, no one will fall for them!’

For being a David amongst the Goliaths when he started off: ‘When you are playing, no one gives you any concessions because you are young.’

For his continued humility ‘Players should remember that they are sportsmen, only sportsmen, and not demigods. You cannot lose sight of that if you want to focus on your game.’

For his unassuming nature I remember him walking in to my nephew’s birthday party, years ago, when he was a much sought-after icon. Both he and Anjali stood at the entrance of the terrace where the party was being held, quietly watched the cake being cut. Without drawing attention to their presence, they wished the boy and his parents (their friends) and left.

For being a cricketer, first and foremost ‘When we start playing cricket, we are mature enough to know that it is only cricket and nothing else.’

For being the only Indian cricketer who has got all these titles and awards – the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, Padma Shri and Bharat Ratna.

For being equated with the sport in India for the longest time ever: Today, think cricket and his name springs to mind. So what if he has put away his bat and pads? The ‘boy’ who celebrates his birthday today will continue to be India’s pride forever!